The reported assassination of former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad initially overshadowed news of the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on the first day of the Iran war. While many remembered Ahmadinejad’s presidency—from 2005 to 2013—as a period marked by controversial rhetoric, early reports of his death proved inaccurate.
A Shift in Status
Ahmadinejad, once a central figure in the Iranian government, had become a critic of the regime after leaving office. This shift led to his exclusion from future presidential runs by the Iranian Guardian Council. For over a decade, he has been viewed more as an opponent than a supporter of the current government.
According to associates who requested anonymity, the strike near Ahmadinejad’s home was not an assassination attempt, but rather a “jailbreak” operation. These sources suggest Ahmadinejad had allies who facilitated his escape from regime control.
Increased Surveillance
Prior to the recent conflict, the Iranian government had placed bodyguards near Ahmadinejad’s residence, ostensibly for protection but also for surveillance. The number of bodyguards increased to around 50 in the month leading up to the February 28 strike, establishing a checkpoint near his home in the Narmak district of northeast Tehran.
The strike on February 28 reportedly hit the security forces stationed near Ahmadinejad’s residence, and, according to Al Jazeera, also impacted a nearby school, resulting in the deaths of two children. In the ensuing chaos, Ahmadinejad and his family went into hiding. The government initially announced his death, a claim echoed by the reformist daily Sharq.
Following reports of his escape, some within the regime suspected Ahmadinejad was being prepared to participate in a coup. Ahmadinejad has since issued a brief eulogy for the supreme leader, seemingly to demonstrate his continued allegiance and dispel rumors of opposition.
Uncertain Motives
The motives behind the strike remain unclear. While the United States or Israel may have intended to kill Ahmadinejad, the inaccurate targeting raises questions. Alternatively, the operation to free him presents further uncertainties: why liberate him only for him to disappear, and why free him at all given his years outside of power?
Some believe Ahmadinejad retains popular support within Iran and could be valuable to any future government, whether the current regime survives or a new one emerges. His intimate knowledge of the Iranian state could also be useful to outside powers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Mahmoud Ahmadinejad killed in the recent strikes?
Contrary to initial reports, Ahmadinejad is alive. His associates say the strike near his home was a “jailbreak” operation that allowed him and his family to escape.
What was Ahmadinejad’s role in the Iranian government before leaving office?
Ahmadinejad served as president of Iran from 2005 to 2013. During his presidency, he was known for controversial statements, including Holocaust denial.
Why was Ahmadinejad under increased surveillance before the strike?
The Iranian government increased surveillance of Ahmadinejad after the January protests, confiscating his phones and increasing the number of bodyguards assigned to him. The regime reportedly feared his knowledge of the state’s inner workings.
Given the complex circumstances surrounding Ahmadinejad’s survival and the ongoing conflict, what role might former political leaders play in shaping Iran’s future?
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